The Provincial Member and Governor for Madang Province, Ramsey Pariwa, has announced a K100,000 financial support to a new Bauri Cocoa Seed Bank situated adjacent to the Madang-Ramu Highway in Astrolabe Bay Local Level Government (LLG) of Rai Coast district. The Governor's undertaking to assisting this largest cocoa nursery establishment in PNG stamps a collaborative partnership forged between the Madang Provincial Government, PNG Cocoa Board and the nickel/cobalt mine developer Ramu NiCo Management (MCC) Limited. Mr. Pariwa stated that his eagerness to support the new cocoa seed bank is mainly because what the mine developer has done is aligned to the Madang Provincial Government Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027, which places agriculture and cocoa development program as a priority. Furthermore, Governor Pariwa acknowledged that it is the same people both the Madang Provincial Government and the developer Ramu NiCo are serving so it is fitting that collaborative approach in cocoa development is pursued. Governor Pariwa explained that last year the Madang Provincial Government allocated K1million for cocoa nursery roll-out in the province. This year he has allocated K2 million to continue on the cocoa development program in the province. Mr. Pariwa also urged youths from villages situated along the Madang-Ramu Highway to make their hands dirty by planting cocoa, instead of standing along the road and stealing from the traveling public. "You will earn clean money once you make your hands dirty from tilling the land," Mr. Pariwa encouraged. Ramu NiCo's Community Affairs Department General Manager, Eric Kuman, in his opening address explained that one day the mine will close, and people will return to their land to work in agriculture. That is why everyone came together and chose cocoa as the main cash crop after mining. With proper funding, other groups can also grow cocoa and even venture into chocolate production, which will help sustain the people and landowners.The Bauri Cocoa Seed Bank is funded from K50,000 contribution each from the landowner associations in the Ramu NiCo project impact area, namely Kurumbukari LOA, Inland Pipeline LOA, Coastal Pipeline LOA and Basamuk LOA. Mr. Kuman said he is convinced cocoa will drive economic sustainability and provide livelihoods for the impact communities after the lifespan of the mine ends.He added that the partnership between government, developers, and the people will change communities for the better."This is the way forward to ensure cocoa becomes a lasting foundation for our economy and our people’s future," Mr. Kuman said.The Chairman of the Coastal Pipeline Landowners Association, Steven Saud, who spoke on behalf of the four LOAs thanked the developer Ramu NiCo, the Madang Provincial Government and the local people of Bauri for joining hands and working together for the betterment of the local communities, wards, districts, and province as a whole.

Work on the Northern Highway is steadily progressing as construction pushes from Wau through the Gairana Valley toward Sohe, with long-term plans to extend the vital road link to Moreguina in Central Province.Works and Highways Secretary, Mr. Gibson Ali Holemba, says the project is one of the most demanding yet significant undertakings under the Government’s Connect PNG Program.Mr. Holemba said the Northern Highway is designed to open up remote border areas between Morobe, Oro and Central Provinces, providing reliable road access to communities that have remained isolated for many years.“This is the Northern Highway progress from Wau to Gairana Valley and onwards to Sohe, and eventually to Moreguina in Central Province,” he said.“The Connect PNG Program under the Marape–Rosso Government is touching the lives of our rural people along the borders of Morobe, Oro and Central Provinces. We are building roads in some of the most rugged terrains in our country.”According to the Department of Works and Highways, construction is being carried out under extremely difficult conditions, including steep mountain ranges, dense rainforest, high rainfall areas and limited existing access.Despite these challenges, work is continuing steadily.“A kilometre at a time, we are opening up economic opportunities, improving access to essential services, and connecting rural communities to the rest of the country,” Mr. Holemba said.Once completed, the Northern Highway is expected to improve inter-provincial connectivity, support agriculture and rural markets, enhance access to health and education services, and strengthen economic links across the southern corridor.The Connect PNG Program is the Government’s long-term infrastructure strategy aimed at building a nationwide road network to support economic growth and rural development.Mr. Holemba reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to delivering the project despite logistical and environmental challenges.“Development in Papua New Guinea must reach our rural population. Through Connect PNG, we are ensuring no province, and no community is left behind,” he said.

The Chinese business community in the National Capital District (NCD) has been commended for donating two new riot vehicles to support police operations in the city.NCD and Central Provinces Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, thanked the business community during the closing ceremony of a week-long riot training for 66 police officers, including reservists and regular members. Commander Turi said the vehicles, along with donated riot gear and equipment, will strengthen police capacity to respond to unrest and maintain law and order. He referred to the events of January 10th, 2024 (Black Wednesday), when police were outnumbered during widespread looting and burning of shops in Port Moresby. “The donation of the two vehicles, along with other equipment, will now make police operations easier in the city,” he said. He added that the recent riot training, combined with new helmets and protective gear, will improve police readiness in future incidents. Commander Turi acknowledged the increasing population in Port Moresby and the need for better-equipped police to manage law and order issues. He also thanked NCD political leaders for their continued support in crime prevention efforts across the city. The week-long training was initiated by Director Reservist, Chief Inspector Ruben Giusu, and supported by Assistant Commissioner of Police Training Silva Sika and his team. Commander Turi said he looks forward to more training opportunities for officers within the command. During the graduation ceremony, ACP Logistics Chris Smith presented a Toyota Land Cruiser to police reservists to assist with their operations. He praised reservist officers for their dedication. “They deserve logistics and training because they are part of the frontline policing team,” Smith said. The donation and training are expected to strengthen police response capabilities as the city continues to face law and order challenges.

Papua New Guinea has reaffirmed its commitment to building a safer digital environment as the country marked Safer Internet Day 2026.ICT Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr said the Government, through the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology, the Department of ICT (DICT), the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), and the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), is strengthening efforts to promote responsible internet use. This year’s theme, “Smart tech, safe choices by exploring and responsible use of AI,” highlights the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in everyday life and the need for safe digital practices. Minister Tsiamalili said the Marape-Rosso Government is committed to reforming the ICT sector and accelerating digital transformation. “I reaffirm the Prime Minister’s declaration during the Digital Transformation Summit 2025 that Information and Communication Technology and Artificial Intelligence will be the driving force of the nation’s next 50 years of development, growth and public sector reform,” he said. He said the Government’s Reset@50 agenda and the Digital Government Plan 2023–2027 aim to improve accountability, transparency and service delivery through technology. While social media has improved communication, business engagement and access to government services, the Minister acknowledged growing risks. “Social media plays a significant role in connecting people, businesses and government services. However, the rapid evolution of social media, including the use of AI, has presented challenges including privacy breaches, misinformation, online harassment, hate speech and data security risks,” he said. To address these issues, the Government introduced the Papua New Guinea Social Media Policy 2025. “The goal of this policy is to promote safe usage of social media platforms and to maintain our cultural and Christian values as we continue to adapt to changing lifestyles influenced by technology,” Minister Tsiamalili said. He urged citizens to take personal responsibility online. “I encourage all Papua New Guineans to take ownership of this policy and be accountable so that we can create a safe social media environment.” The Government says Safer Internet Day serves as a reminder that digital transformation must go hand in hand with online safety, responsibility and national security. “Let us continue to work together to embrace technological advancement to positively contribute to the development of our country,” the Minister said.

AFL PNG coaches, umpires and players from the Under 16s have gone to Brisbane, Australia to attend the AFL Pacific Academy Camp.The camp was made possible with the support of the Australia Government through its PacificAus Sports initiative, where AFL PNG Academy will join forces with the best Under 16 players from Nauru, Fiji, Tonga, Vanuatu and New Zealand where they will have the opportunity to take on the Brisbane Lions Academy and Gold Coast SUNS Academy. Australian High Commissioner to PNG and Special Envoy for Pacific and Regional Affairs, Mr. Ewen McDonald, expressed his delight at the creation of sporting pathways for young Pacific Islanders through PacificAus Sports. “We are excited to support young Aussie Rules players from across the Pacific and PNG to attend academy camps in Australia. These players have the opportunity to represent their communities and inspire girls and boys to play team sports,” he said. AFL PNG Development Chairman Mr. Ekonia Peni said he is proud to see more opportunities for young Papua New Guineans to showcase their talent in Australia. “I have no doubt this opportunity will be fulfilling both on and off the footy field. We have genuine talent in PNG, and through the work of our AFL PNG Academy programs and player pathways nationally, we want to continue providing opportunities for these coaches, umpires and players to showcase their ability and commitment to the game.” “Our young people will represent our country with pride and passion, leading the way while creating lasting friendships and connecting with our Pacific brothers and sisters.” “I would like to thank the Australian Government, through the PacificAus Sports Program and Invest Gold Coast for supporting these aspiring players, coaches and umpires,” Mr. Peni said. The under 16 girls camp will run from 18-23 February, while the boys camp will be from 11-16 March.

A community leader from Karkar Island in Madang province is calling for urgent action to restore the sea ambulance serving island communities in Sumkar District, warning that lives are at risk while the vessel remains out of operation.Tony Dibul said families on Karkar and Bagabag islands rely heavily on Gaubin Lutheran Hospital as their main referral health facility.“For many families, Gaubin is the first and often only place to seek medical help during an emergency,” he said.However, when cases go beyond the hospital’s capacity — including complicated childbirth, serious injuries and other life-threatening conditions — patients must be urgently transferred to Madang.“That is where the sea ambulance becomes critical. Without it, we are gambling with people’s lives,” Dibul said.He said that without the dedicated medical vessel, families are forced to use small boats to cross rough seas, often without medical supervision.Dibul is urging the District Administration and Madang Provincial Health Authority to urgently repair and maintain the vessel, ensure funding for fuel, and strengthen emergency transfer systems between Gaubin and Madang.He stressed that restoring the sea ambulance is not just a maintenance issue, but a matter of life and death for island communities.

The BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) has once again recorded another year of solid profitability results despite facing some challenges in 2025.BSP Financial Group Limited (PNGX: BSP | ASX: BFL) (“BSP”) today released its financial results for the year ended 31 December 2025, showing great results. BSP 2025 Financial Results - Highlights Statutory net profit after tax of K1.17b (A$440m), up 12.9% on FY24 driven by continued balance sheet growth, stable margins and strong foreign exchange earnings.Revenue of K3.41b (A$1.28b), up 14.4%, driven primarily by net interest income up 9% with net interest margins increasing to 6.41%, up 19bps, and strong FX income up 28.7% or K161m (A$50m) from FY24. Delivering strong shareholder returns with ROE of 23.8%, up 50bps on FY24, positioning BSP at the upper end of ASX-listed banks. Operating expenses well managed, up 15.4% on the back of higher employment costs and technology investments, including BSP’s Modernizing for Growth program. CTI ratio 42.9%, up 160bp and within 42%-45% guidance, notwithstanding continued investment to sustain shareholder returns. Provisions to loans were stable at 3.3% with higher impairment expenses reflecting lending growth, while delinquency rates were down 10bp to 2.7%, reflecting a supportive economic environment and the quality of the loan book. Capital adequacy of 26.4%, up 20bps, reflecting capacity to support customers and continuing growth, while maintaining prudent capital levels. Full year dividend per share of K1.88 ($A0.71), up 13%, reflecting BSP’s continued commitment to disciplined capital management and shareholder distributions. The final dividend of K1.38 ($A0.57) is payable on 27 March 2026. BSP Chairman Robert Bradshaw said: “This is a strong result with impressive financial performance in a fast changing and highly competitive environment, reflecting our 20-year track record of delivering growth in profitability and attractive shareholder returns. “We enter 2026 with confidence. The region’s economies are growing faster than many developed markets, supported by resilient communities, entrepreneurial businesses and expanding trade. With the investment we are making in our people, the modernisation of our infrastructure and deep local relationships, we look forward to continuing to help the region to grow and prosper.” “We accelerated the rollout of our multi-year K1.2b Modernising for Growth program to improve the experience for our retail and business customers. We are already seeing results. We made further progress in improving our customers’ experience through branch upgrades, the roll out of next generation infrastructure, including new ATMs and EFTPOS terminals, new personalised customer propositions and the launch of our Business Bank. “A particular highlight was the continued acceleration in digital adoption, up over 22%, with internet banking transactions up 54% and EFTPOS transactions up 16%. “At the same time, we are strengthening our operations by developing our workforce for the future with digital capabilities and modern banking competencies. We have also made further investments in automated controls and advanced AML systems, keeping transaction error rates below international benchmarks. “Our scale and financial strength are allowing us to invest substantively in financial inclusion, for the benefit of our communities as well as our shareholders. In February 2025, we launched the Wantok Wallet, which makes everyday banking possible for people who would otherwise travel long distances to a branch or rely on cash. By year end, over 100,000 people had signed up for Wantok Wallet. “Our strong financial performance is a positive result for Papua New Guinea in its 50th year of Independence, highlighting the growth opportunities available in the South Pacific and the important role large regional business can play in supporting national development goals.”

Prime Minister James Marape has announced the official establishment of the PNG Country Package Secretariat for Forest, Nature and Climate under the Department of Prime Minister.The initiative, endorsed by the National Executive Council at the end of 2025, follows Papua New Guinea’s active engagement in global climate forums and its push for stronger climate solutions. Prime Minister Marape said the move reinforces the government’s commitment to whole-of-government coordination, improved accountability and effective delivery, positioning the Country Package as a key pillar of PNG’s development framework. “The Department of Prime Minister will now assume full responsibility for leadership and coordination of the PNG Country Package. It will work closely with line agencies, provincial governments, development partners, civil society, the private sector and customary landowners and community leaders,” he said. He described the transition as the start of a new phase focused on implementation, scale and measurable impact. The Prime Minister said the initiative aims to deliver tangible benefits, including stronger forest and biodiversity protection, improved livelihoods for rural and forest-dependent communities, enhanced climate resilience, sustainable economic pathways and greater international recognition of PNG’s environmental leadership. The PNG Country Package is built around five priority areas: Expanding protected areas to cover 30 percent of land and marine spaces,Improving forest management and governance across the sector,Strengthening sustainable financing for climate, forest and nature outcomes,Supporting environmental research and education, and Enhancing monitoring and reporting systems. Prime Minister Marape thanked the European Union and the Government of France, led by Emmanuel Macron, for their continued partnership and investment in climate and forest initiatives. EU Ambassador to PNG Erika Hasznos reaffirmed the EU’s €54 million (over K220 million) investment under the European Union Forestry, Climate Change and Biodiversity (EU-FCCB) program, which began in 2023 and will conclude in 2027. France has also launched the €15 million SoNG (Solwara na Graun blo Pipol) Project, announced in December 2025, to support biodiversity protection in partnership with local communities. The project stems from commitments made by President Macron during his 2023 visit to PNG. Both initiatives are core components of the PNG Country Package and will now be coordinated through the new secretariat. PNG joins six other countries, Colombia, Peru, Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo and Gabon in developing Country Package models under the Forest Climate Leaders Partnership. PNG officially joined the partnership at COP30 and is now an active member.

The Managing Director of the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), Mr. Justin Ilakini, has announced a major milestone in strengthening fisheries education through the redevelopment of the National Fisheries College (NFC) waterfront training facilities.Mr. Ilakini highlighted that this initiative reflects the strong and longstanding bilateral partnership between Papua New Guinea and the Government of Japan and aligns with the PNG Government’s policy direction to build a broad-based fisheries sector that is not solely dependent on the tuna industry. “By strengthening domestic training capacity and expanding technical expertise, the Project supports national objectives to increase direct participation of Papua New Guineans across the fisheries value chain and enhance direct revenue generation for the State.” He elaborated that the redevelopment also advances one of NFA’s key priorities for 2026 to reset and refocus the National Fisheries College as a higher-level fisheries learning institution capable of supporting national workforce development and regional training demand. “The transformation of NFC is intended to position the College as a centre of excellence that underpins sustainable growth, industry diversification, and national capacity building in the fisheries sector.” Conceived three and a half years ago, the Project for the Improvement of Facilities and Training Equipment of NFC is now entering its delivery phase. “The Project will equip the College with modern training facilities and equipment for advanced fisheries education, expand practical training opportunities with a focus on bottom fishing and longline fishing operations, and strengthen PNG’s capacity to support diversified fisheries development,” Ilakini added. He further clarified that Japan’s first Overseas Development Assistance project at NFC was implemented in 1974 through the construction of the Students Auditorium. Building on this longstanding cooperation, Japan has again provided grant support for the redevelopment of the NFC waterfront training facilities, including a dedicated Training Vessel. The Exchange of Notes and Grant Agreement were executed on 20 June 2025, with Japan’s grant valued at 3,255,000,000 yen (K90,370,844). Together with the Government of Papua New Guinea’s contribution, the total project value stands at K120,000,000 (K120 Million).  “The redevelopment comprises the procurement and construction of a modern Training Vessel and the construction of new shore-based waterfront training facilities. The Training Vessel procurement process is ongoing, with contractor announcement expected soon.” “Construction and delivery of the vessel are projected over three years, with delivery anticipated in 2029, and arrangements for the vessel are expected to be finalized during the balance of this year.”   Whilst the training vessel component of the project is ongoing, NFA is pleased to confirm that the shorefront development component has progressed successfully, with a contractor identified to proceed to the implementation phase at a value of K92 million. The contract for the shore-based training facilities was signed on Thursday, 19th February 2026, at the Papua New Guinea Embassy in Tokyo, Japan, between NFA and Dai Nippon Construction, and was witnessed by the Secretary of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring (DNPM), Mr. Koney Samuel. The DNPM is supporting NFA to ensure all State obligation requirements are met so the Project can proceed smoothly into implementation. Construction is anticipated to be completed in the first quarter of 2028. A ground- breaking ceremony is anticipated later in the year, subject to the availability of key dignitaries. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Ilakini stated that, "This Project represents a transformational investment in the future of fisheries education and workforce development in Papua New Guinea.” “Through modern facilities, expanded practical training, and strengthened international partnership, the National Fisheries College will be positioned to serve as a leading regional centre of excellence in fisheries training.”

The National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) has announced the appointment of Christopher Elphick as Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective January 2026.Chief Executive Officer Rajeev Sharma confirmed the appointment today, describing Mr. Elphick as a proven leader with strong governance credentials and a deep understanding of the Fund’s mission. “On behalf of the Fund, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Christopher Elphick as Chairman of the Board,” Mr. Sharma said. “Christopher brings proven leadership, strong governance experience and a deep understanding of Nasfund’s mission to deliver long-term value for our members. His strategic mindset and investment expertise will be invaluable as we continue advancing our priorities and strengthening member outcomes.” Mr. Elphick joined the Nasfund Board on 1 October 2022 as an Independent Director. He has since chaired the Investment Committee and served on the Remuneration and Nominations Committee. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom, majoring in Marketing and Management, and is an alumnus of the United World College of Southeast Asia. A graduate of the Nasfund Trainee Directors Program (2014 cohort), Mr. Elphick has maintained a long-standing relationship with the Fund and a strong appreciation of its mandate. Beyond Nasfund, Mr. Elphick serves as Executive Director of Tohouwa (PNG) Limited (FairPrice), outgoing Chairman of the Nasfund Contributors Savings & Loans Society (NCSL), and a Director of Transparency International PNG, among other roles. He succeeds Tamzin Wardley, LM, MBE, who served as Board Chair from October 2022 to December 2025. Acknowledging his predecessor’s contribution, Mr. Elphick said, “I want to recognize the outstanding leadership of Ms. Tamzin Wardley. Her vision and dedication have reaffirmed Nasfund as a trusted and innovative superannuation provider.” Reflecting on his appointment, Mr.Elphick described the role as both an honour and a responsibility. “It is an honour to lead Nasfund at this pivotal time. Having begun my journey as a trainee director, I am humbled to now chair the Board of an organisation that plays a critical role in securing the retirement future of contributors in Papua New Guinea,” he said. “My focus will be on strengthening governance, driving sustainable investment strategies, and enhancing member services through innovation, guided by the Nasfund values. With a strong Board and an exceptional management team led by CEO Rajeev Sharma, we are ready for tomorrow.”

Customers in Minj, Anglimp South Waghi District of Jiwaka Province, are now the first in Papua New Guinea’s Highlands Region to access a Deposit ATM, following the upgrade of the local BSP branch.BSP Financial Group Ltd officially opened its newly constructed Minj branch earlier this week, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of modern banking services to rural communities. BSP Group Retail General Manager Ronesh Dayal said the upgrade transforms a sub-branch established 15 years ago into a full-service, modern banking facility. “Our Minj Branch opened its doors for service on Tuesday, 17 February 2026, through a soft opening with enhanced services including Deposit and Dispensing ATMs, teller services, lending, self-service digital banking registration, card services, and account opening,” Mr Dayal said. The new services are expected to benefit more than 200,000 people in the district, strengthening rural banking access and financial inclusion. BSP Highlands Region Area Manager John Tomba Jnr highlighted the importance of banking access in predominantly agricultural communities. “The Minj area is primarily rural, with agriculture — especially coffee, fresh produce and small-scale farming — forming the backbone of the local economy. Access to formal banking services is critical for farmers receiving payments, small businesses managing cash flow, government employees accessing salaries, and parents paying school fees,” he said. “Customers in Minj are the first in the Highlands Region to access and use our Deposit ATM. They can conveniently use this service even after the branch closes.” Previously operating from the Jiwaka Provincial Treasury Office, the new Minj branch building took five months to complete. Together with its Hybrid Branch in Banz, the Minj facility now serves as a key financial hub for Jiwaka Province, reducing the need for residents to travel to Mount Hagen for banking services. The branch expansion is expected to support secure cash handling, local business growth and broader economic development across the province.

Rugby league in Madang Province has received a major boost following the presentation of a new set of uniforms to the Madang Rugby League Provincial Team, the Madang Fox, by Brian Bell Home Center.The uniforms were presented by General Manager Janoa Smith during a ceremony attended by Madang Rugby League officials, players and supporters. The jerseys were sponsored through the Brian Bell Foundation and mark a significant milestone for the team as it prepares for greater challenges ahead.Receiving the uniforms on behalf of the league, Albert Tobe, Administrator and President of Madang Rugby League, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the timely and generous support. “We are deeply grateful to the Brian Bell Foundation for sponsoring these uniforms for our provincial team, the Madang Fox,” Mr Tobe said. “This sponsorship is a huge boost for the development of rugby league in Madang, especially as we prepare to enter the national competition in 2027.” Mr Tobe stressed that the contribution goes beyond providing new jerseys, describing rugby league as a powerful vehicle for community development and social progress. “Rugby league is not just a sport,” he said. “It is a development tool that can greatly help promote unity, peace and a healthy society. It keeps our young people engaged, disciplined and focused.” He added that a strong provincial rugby league programme can also serve as a platform to promote small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and stimulate economic activity across the host district and the wider province. “When we host matches, businesses benefit. SMEs grow. Communities come together,” Mr Tobe said. “Rugby league creates opportunities not only for players, but also for vendors, transport operators, accommodation providers and many others.” The Madang Fox’s new uniforms symbolise more than just team identity — they represent renewed hope and ambition for rugby league in Madang. After years of rebuilding and restructuring, the league is now firmly setting its sights on national participation in 2027. With corporate partners such as Brian Bell stepping forward, Madang Rugby League is confident that the foundation is being laid for a competitive, united and economically vibrant future for the sport in the province.